The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Carefree. Carefree is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Carefree, AZ. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers 148 sites for RV and tent camping within the campgrounds (does not including primitive camping sites)
Each "Developed Site" has water, electricity, dump station, a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring.
Each "Semi-Developed Site" and tent site has a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill and fire ring, unless otherwise acknowledged in the description or camping map.
Restroom and/or shower facilities are available at both types of campsites. All sites in the campground may be reserved online at www.maricopacountyparks.org/. Campgrounds
Desert Tortoise Campground has 74 campsites: 25 Developed Sites, 39 Semi-Developed Sites, and 10 Tent Sites.
Roadrunner Campground offers 71 sites for RV and tent camping. All sites are Developed.
Large groups can reserve the Desert Tortoise Group Campground. The Group Campground includes a parking area for RVs, picnic tables, and ramadas. The use of this area is by reservation only and requires a minimum commitment of 10 camping units.Shoreline Camping
Lake Pleasant Regional Park also has shoreline/primitive camping during most of the year, depending on water levels. Shoreline camping is only permitted within designated areas for such use, when available. Day-of availability will be on a first-come, first-served basis and can only be reserved during business hours at the park. For information on camping fees, click on this link to be redirected to the "Fees" page.
The first phase or re-introducing primitive/shoreline camping will be rolled out in late January 2021, with the area of the Dirt Spillway. Future areas will be included in phases at later dates.
Campers must park in designated parking areas. Tent camping will be permitted along the shoreline within the designated area. No vehicles will be permitted to park along the shoreline within the area.
Check-in time the day of arrival shall occur no earlier than 2 p.m. Campers must check out the day of departure by 12 p.m. (noon). Boat-In Camping
Boat-in camping is now available at the 10 Lane Parking Lot. Roughly 30 assigned parking spaces have been designated for such use. Each camping/parking space is approximately 45 feet long by 12 ft. wide to accommodate most boat trailers and towing vehicles. Reservations are required. Day-of availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and can only be reserved during business hours at the park.
Boaters must camp on the waters of Lake Pleasant – no shoreline camping available at this time. Camping is not permitted within the parking lot/camp space. Boat-in camping is a great option for fisherman looking to fish in the late evening/early morning hours. Boat-in campers must arrive and check-in before the park closes at night (8 pm).
$15 - $300 / night
The campground has 138 sites: 68 sites with electric (50/30/20 amp service) and water and the remainder non-hookup sites on paved roads for tents or RVs. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size restrictions on RVs. Well-mannered pets on leashes are welcome, but please pick after your pets.
The office at Lost Dutchman is open until 7 p.m. for campsite check-in, but after hours (with campsite reservations) you can grab a map by the ranger station and head straight to your campsite! If you are staying multiple nights, check-in with the camp host, or a ranger to get a vehicle tag.
$25 - $89 / night
Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
$32 / night
Cave Creek Regional Park is a gem for campers looking for a mix of comfort and natural beauty. This campground offers a peaceful retreat with clean facilities, hot showers, and friendly staff. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with picnic tables and fire pits at each spot. If you're planning to stay here, consider booking a site with a canopy, especially if your rig lacks solid air conditioning—shade can be a lifesaver in the Arizona sun.
One of the standout features of this campground is its direct access to hiking trails. You can step right out of your tent or RV and hit the trails, exploring the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Located near the quaint town of Cave Creek, the campground is close enough to civilization for convenience but far enough to offer a serene escape. The sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Plus, with amenities like electric and water hookups, a dual-lane dump station, and reservable sites, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Visitors have praised the campground for its cleanliness and the helpfulness of the staff. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Cave Creek Regional Park provides a fantastic backdrop for making lasting memories. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors.
Bartlett Flat Bartlett Reservoir and the Arizona Upland phase of the Sonoran Desert. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Bartlett Flat has primitive boat launch opportunities for small boats. River Access Point (RAP) for Verde River. There are no designated campsites at this shoreline area but camping along the shore is allowed. High water levels will limit the amount of available shoreline in this area.
Welcome to Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, nestled near Peoria, AZ. This place is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. Open all year round, it offers a mix of camping experiences from dry camping to full-on glamping.
One of the standout features here is the stunning view of Lake Pleasant. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cabin, the scenery is something to write home about. The sunsets over the lake are particularly breathtaking, and you might even spot some free-roaming donkeys during your stay.
For those who like to stay connected, the resort boasts strong WiFi, so you can keep up with work or stream your favorite shows without a hitch. If you're into fishing, the shoreline offers some great spots to cast a line. And if you forgot any essentials, the on-site convenience store has you covered, saving you a trip into town.
Security is tight, making it a safe place for solo travelers and families alike. The park is well-patrolled, and you’ll need a pass to re-enter, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
If you're into off-roading, bring your ATV because the trails around here are buzzing with activity. And for those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the clean and quiet campground areas are perfect for a relaxing getaway.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy all that Pleasant Harbor RV Resort has to offer. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you're in for a treat.
FREE permit required from the Mesa Ranger District office at 5140 E. Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205; 480-610-3300. Permits can be requested online or by email. The permit will be emailed to you within 48 hours (except weekends and holidays).
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
Riverside Riverside is a campground with an exceptional view of Bartlett Dam. Because of the close proximity to water, fisherman and avid water recreationalist enjoy this spot all year long. Riverside is less busy than most of our recsites near water because it only allows non-motorized boats. The Verde River and the riparian area are ideal for bird watching. Bald eagles are occasionally seen here.
Set in the northeast Valley of metro Phoenix, McDowell Mountain Regional Park covers 21,099 acres in the lower Verde River basin. Campers choose from 76 individual sites for tent or RV camping, which can accommodate up to a 45-foot RV. These developed sites have water and electrical hook-ups, plus a dump station, picnic table, and barbecue fire ring, while all restrooms offer flush toilets and showers. Group camping is also available.
McDowell Mountain activities range from biking, hiking, and horseback riding on over 50 miles of multi-use trails to picnicking, stargazing, and plenty of park-organized programs and events.
$32 / night
Cave Creek Regional Park is a gem for campers looking for a mix of comfort and natural beauty. This campground offers a peaceful retreat with clean facilities, hot showers, and friendly staff. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with picnic tables and fire pits at each spot. If you're planning to stay here, consider booking a site with a canopy, especially if your rig lacks solid air conditioning—shade can be a lifesaver in the Arizona sun.
One of the standout features of this campground is its direct access to hiking trails. You can step right out of your tent or RV and hit the trails, exploring the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. The park is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Located near the quaint town of Cave Creek, the campground is close enough to civilization for convenience but far enough to offer a serene escape. The sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Plus, with amenities like electric and water hookups, a dual-lane dump station, and reservable sites, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Visitors have praised the campground for its cleanliness and the helpfulness of the staff. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Cave Creek Regional Park provides a fantastic backdrop for making lasting memories. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors.
Bartlett Flat Bartlett Reservoir and the Arizona Upland phase of the Sonoran Desert. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Bartlett Flat has primitive boat launch opportunities for small boats. River Access Point (RAP) for Verde River. There are no designated campsites at this shoreline area but camping along the shore is allowed. High water levels will limit the amount of available shoreline in this area.
Welcome to Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, nestled near Peoria, AZ. This place is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. Open all year round, it offers a mix of camping experiences from dry camping to full-on glamping.
One of the standout features here is the stunning view of Lake Pleasant. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, or staying in a cabin, the scenery is something to write home about. The sunsets over the lake are particularly breathtaking, and you might even spot some free-roaming donkeys during your stay.
For those who like to stay connected, the resort boasts strong WiFi, so you can keep up with work or stream your favorite shows without a hitch. If you're into fishing, the shoreline offers some great spots to cast a line. And if you forgot any essentials, the on-site convenience store has you covered, saving you a trip into town.
Security is tight, making it a safe place for solo travelers and families alike. The park is well-patrolled, and you’ll need a pass to re-enter, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
If you're into off-roading, bring your ATV because the trails around here are buzzing with activity. And for those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the clean and quiet campground areas are perfect for a relaxing getaway.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy all that Pleasant Harbor RV Resort has to offer. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you're in for a treat.
FREE permit required from the Mesa Ranger District office at 5140 E. Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205; 480-610-3300. Permits can be requested online or by email. The permit will be emailed to you within 48 hours (except weekends and holidays).
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Carefree, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, Carefree, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 261 campgrounds and RV parks near Carefree, AZ and 63 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Carefree, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carefree, AZ is Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carefree, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 63 free dispersed camping spots near Carefree, AZ.
What parks are near Carefree, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Carefree, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Prescott National Forest.
